Here are a few home maintenance tips to help you to survive the cold weather.

Clean the gutters

Over time, the gutters and exterior drains can become clogged with debris. Unfortunately, this can lead to trouble during the winter time. The additional weight of the melting snow and ice can cause the gutters to suddenly fall down. After the autumn season has ended, it is always a good idea to thoroughly clean all of the gutters and exterior drains.

Inspect the Chimney

Many homeowners choose to use a woodstove as a secondary source of heat. However, your entire chimney system needs to be professionally inspected before the cold weather arrives. Over time, a large amount of soot can build up within the chimney. This means that the inside of the home can become saturated with smoke and fumes. Each year, dozens of Americans die to carbon monoxide poisoning. Also, inspecting and cleaning the chimney will also help prevent chimney fires that could potentially burn down your home and leave you out in the cold. These fires are very dangerous and you will want to get your chimney inspected before the cold weather hits.

Service the Heating System

The majority of households depend on a HVAC system to provide the necessary warmth during the winter. However, HVAC units need to be serviced on a regular basis. Due to the fact that HVAC servicemen are very busy during the colder months, it is advisable to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. It is also a wise idea to replace the system’s filter at the recommended interval (Source: Academy Mechanical Services Inc.).

Protect the Pipes

Freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on your home’s piping system. As many people already know, a frozen pipe can cause a lot of stress. Homeowners who have an outdoor well need to be especially cautious. Properly insulating the pipes will help to keep them protected from the cold weather. Always drain the outdoor water spigot during the peak of winter.

Install Weather Stripping

Although the cost of weather stripping is relatively inexpensive, it can actually reduce your energy bill by hundreds of dollars a year. To prevent heat from escaping the home, weather stripping needs to be applied around the doors and windows. If you notice the presence of any cracks along the walls, use expanding foam or caulking to seal up the area.

Winter is the worst time to do any kind of home maintenance especially if it involves being outside in the cold weather or if it is because your furnace system needs to be repaired or replaced. Do not underestimate the importance of home maintenance. Take the proper steps in whatever is necessary to make sure that your home will function properly when the weather gets to be in the freezing temperatures. With the proper maintenance, you will be able to prevent costly energy bills and expensive repairs.

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